Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Shulchan Aruch Project work?Participants receive two written lectures (shiurim) each week. Participants study the material provided and the required texts.

How long is the lecture (shiur)?Each lecture (Shiur) is 7-9 pages, requiring approximately five hours of study and review.

How long is each unit within the program?Units differ in the amount of time they require. For example; Eiruvin is approximately six months, while the Shabbot course takes approximately two years. The Diatary Law (Issur V’ Heter) course is approximately one year and three months, whereas the Laws of the Four Species (Daled minim) course is an average of four months.

Can I do more than one course at once?

If you have the time and ability yes, when learning for Smicha the rabbi would have to approve it for credits you can do up to three courses at a time.

What does each lesson include?Every lesson contains the translation of the Mechaber and Rama (the code of law of the Shulchan Aruch), and the sources for the quoted passages (quotes from the Torah, Talmud and relevant quotes from the medieval and later commentaries).

Students may also opt to receive audio lectures supplementing the lesson.

Does this mean we get a bibliography and must look up each source?No, in each lesson you will find the commentary, explanation of the concepts and sources, and definition of all terms. To add clarity, detailed explanations and many examples are provided.
All material is cited so that students can review concepts in their original texts.

What about the Halacha as it applies to us today? Do the lessons include application to modern day living?One of the unique aspects of our program is the focus on practical application. Each lesson includes contemporary Halachic responsa from leading Halachic authorities such as R’ Shlomo Zalman Auerbach zt’, R’ Moshe Feinstein zt’l, R’ Ovadia Yosef Shilita, and others.

What if I have questions?Participants of the program are each assigned a Instructor/Rabbi who is available for all questions and clarifications. Our Rabbinic staff members are well known for their expertise, and develop a personal relationship with each student.

How do I ask questions?Asking a question is simple – email your assigned Instructor/Rabbi to receive an answer within 24 hours. Additionally, students can schedule meetings with the instructor via skype, providing an opportunity for clarifications and or personal communication.

Were all the units within the Shulchan Aruch Project developed by one Rabbi?
No, each subject (for example, Shabbos, Aveilus, Ribbis) has a separate head Rabbi and editing staff.

I still do not understand how the program actually works…Every week you will receive an average of two lessons (Shiurim). Using the required texts and the material provided, you study the information. At the end of each Lesson (shiur) you are provided with a synopsis and review questions on the current and previous shiurim. At the completion of each course, participants take online timed exams. At the end of each unit students take a comprehensive proctored exam.

Must I take the exams?No. Only students who wish to receive smicha and/or credits for their studies must pass the exams.

Where do I take these exams?Exams can be taken anywhere you want, in accordance to PS proctoring policies. The final Smicha exam is administered in Jerusalem or at the YPS annual event In USA

Are there any requirements for joining the Yeshiva Pirchei Shoshanim College Program?

Potential participants must provide a letter of recommendation from an Orthodox Rabbi. The admission committee reviews all applications and reserves the right to reject applicants.